Gravel: Weight, Coverage & Types
How much gravel you need, what a yard weighs, and which type fits your project.
Gravel is a loose aggregate of small stones used for driveways, drainage, walkways, and as a base under concrete or pavers. Knowing the density and coverage helps you order the right amount without paying for excess.
How do I calculate how much gravel I need?
Most landscaping gravels weigh roughly 2,400–2,900 lb per cubic yard (1,400–1,700 kg/m³) depending on stone type and moisture. Angular crushed stone compacts tighter than rounded river rock, so it covers slightly less area at the same depth.
A typical driveway is spread 4–6 inches deep in two lifts: a coarse base (¾″ minus or crusher run) topped with a decorative or drainage-friendly gravel like #57 stone or pea gravel. French drains and dry wells use clean, washed stone with no fines so water can move through.
To estimate quantity: multiply area (ft²) × depth (ft) ÷ 27 = cubic yards, then add 5–10% for compaction and spillage.
What is gravel used for?
- Driveways and parking pads
- Walkways and garden paths
- Drainage / French drains
- Sub-base under pavers, patios, and concrete slabs
- Erosion control and ground cover
Which types of gravel are there?
What else do people ask about gravel?
How much does a yard of gravel weigh?
Between 2,400 and 2,900 pounds (1.2–1.45 US tons) for most landscape gravels. Wet gravel weighs 5–10% more.
How deep should gravel be for a driveway?
4–6 inches total, ideally in two layers: 3–4″ of compacted crusher run as a base, then 1–2″ of #57 stone or decorative gravel on top.
How much area does a ton of gravel cover?
About 70–80 sq ft at 3″ depth or 100 sq ft at 2″ depth.